Topic: Grace

Pastor Wes reflects on the story of Jesus dining at the house of Simon the Pharisee and being anointed by a woman known as a sinner. Drawing a playful parallel to the childhood game “Simon Says,” he invites the congregation to consider how often we, like Simon, use rules or social norms to maintain control in uncertain times. Wes explores Simon’s sincerity, yet also his judgment, contrasting it with the woman’s unrestrained and scandalous act of love. He challenges listeners to feel the discomfort of the story: a woman touching Jesus, breaking societal norms, and Jesus receiving her with grace. In this reversal, Jesus levels the playing field—socially, economically, and spiritually—inviting us to reflect on where we judge, where we hurt, and whether we truly welcome everyone at the table of God’s grace.

In his sermon titled “Drenched,” Pastor Wes reflects on Jesus’ baptism in Matthew 3:13-17, emphasizing the transformative and communal nature of baptism. He likens the twists and turns of the River Jordan to the meandering paths of our own lives and invites us to embrace God’s grace, which claims us as beloved even before we prove ourselves. Pastor Wes encourages us to remember our baptism daily, listening for God’s presence in the ordinary moments of life and opening ourselves to renewal and love.